Mauser Post-War Bolo C96 Broomhandle 7.63x25mm Semi-Automatic Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,125.00
LSB#: LSB250531JS014
Make: Waffenfabrik Mauser Oberndorf A/N, Germany
Model: 1896 Bolo
Serial Number: 572726
Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1923-1930
Caliber: 7.63x25mm Mauser
Action Type: Single Action Semi Auto Hammer Fired Short Recoil Operated Pistol with Internal Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel chamber is marked “WAFFENFABRIK / MAUSER / OBERNDORF A/N”, the left shoulder with a double crowned “U” and “572726”. The top rear of the bolt is marked with a double crowned “U”. All serialized parts are matched to the receiver save for the floorplate and bolt catch. The right side of the frame is marked, “WAFFENFABRIK MAUSER OBERNDORF A.NECKAR” and the left side has a Mauser banner. There is an import mark
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The pistol is mounted with a “V” notched rear sliding elevator sight with markings from “50-500” that is pinned to the barrel extension. The front sight is a barelycorn blade fixed to the front of the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece serrated walnut panels. The grips show minor handling wear with only a few small marks and well defined serrations. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are about Very Good condition but appear either refinished or not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is light gray and the rifling is worn. There is heavy erosion in the bore with spots of pitting. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 6.5/10
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 25% of its metal finish. There are scratches, nicks, and thinning throughout. There is moderate patina throughout. The action has moderate wear. The screw head is lightly tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in about Fair + condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Mauser C96 “Broomhandle” is one of the most recognizable and historically significant pistols of the 20th century, instantly identifiable by its integral box magazine ahead of the trigger, distinctive grip shape, and long, slim profile. The “Bolo” variant—produced primarily in the 1920s—was a post–World War I development characterized by its shorter 4″ barrel and smaller grip profile. These changes were partly in response to the restrictions placed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles and partly to appeal to commercial markets in Europe and Asia. Chambered in 7.63x25mm Mauser, the C96 offered excellent ballistic performance for its era, and its unique design has secured it a place in military history, popular culture, and countless collections. This example, manufactured between approximately 1923 and 1930, retains about 25% of its original blued finish, with most surfaces showing thinning, patina, and scattered wear consistent with age and service. The bore shows significant wear with a gray tone, worn rifling, and visible pitting, rating 6.5/10 in this writer’s opinion. All major serialized parts match the receiver except the floorplate and bolt catch, and the walnut grips—while in Very Good condition—appear either refinished or replaced. Mechanically, the pistol functions properly, and the original Mauser markings remain clear and well-defined.
For collectors of early 20th-century military pistols or German interwar firearms, this Bolo C96 offers both historical value and classic Mauser craftsmanship. While its bore condition and mixed parts place it in the shooter-grade to fair collectible range, it remains a genuine example of an iconic design with C&R eligibility. Whether kept as a piece of display-worthy history, used as a restoration candidate, or simply appreciated for its unique engineering, this Bolo still carries the unmistakable character of the legendary Mauser C96. -R.E.
